A curtain for the tomb of the prophet (Hujrat Al-Qabr Al-Nabawi Al-Sahrif) in Medina with the Tughra of Sultan Mustafa III (r. 1171-87/ 1757-74)

of rectangular form, the pale coffee-coloured ground embroidered with silver and silver-gilt metal threads, with red and green roundels and calligraphic cartouches, a central inscription with imperial tughra below flanked by paired columns, the narrow border with leaves and palmettes and rosette corner-pieces

Areas of repair with patches to the textile ground, overall fair condition, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscriptions

In the top cartouche: Qur'an, surah Al 'Umran (III), a part of 37, followed by: 'This is the Prophet's Mihrab, may God bless him and his family'

In the small roundels: The names of the four Orthodox Caliphs, Hasan and Husayn

In the centre: Qur'an, surah al-Baqara (II), 255

With the tughra of Sultan Mustafa III (r. 1171-87/ 1757-74)